Hamas has accepted an updated proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza presented by the Qatari and Egyptian mediators, two sources with knowledge of the talks tell Axios.
Why it matters: This is part of a last-ditch effort to reach a deal and avoid a major new Israeli offensive to occupy Gaza City. A diplomatic source said the deal Hamas accepted is “98% similar” to the last U.S.-backed proposal. Israel agreed to that proposal, but talks broke down when Hamas did not.
Israeli officials said they still haven’t received the written Hamas response and therefore cannot say whether they find it acceptable.
The second source said the proposal Hamas accepted is a partial deal for a 60-day ceasefire, the release of 10 live hostages, 18 deceased hostages and the release of Palestinian prisoners.
The news comes just hours after President Trump urged Israel to expand its attacks on Hamas, saying the hostages would not be freed until Hamas was “confronted and destroyed.”
State of play: Trump’s comments aligned with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s push for the occupation of Gaza City.
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Author: Dillon B
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